Portsmouth police officers found themselves on the front lines of a child in crisis, responding to a terrifying scene that required quick action, restraint, and compassion.
Around 5 p.m., officers were called to Gallia Street after a report of a young teen running into traffic and harming herself. When officers arrived, they found the situation unfolding in real time.
According to police, the juvenile was actively attempting to run in front of passing vehicles. Officers observed blood on her arm and hand and saw that she was cutting herself with a piece of glass.
Officers immediately intervened. No Tasers or weapons were used. Instead, officers physically held the teen’s arms to prevent further injury until medics arrived. She was then secured in the ambulance for her own safety and transported to the hospital.
Once at the hospital, the child continued to struggle. Police report she attempted to bite an officer multiple times, though she was unsuccessful. Due to her behavior and risk of self-harm, she was restrained by medical staff and secured to the hospital bed to prevent further injury.
Police as First Responders to Mental Health Emergencies
Incidents like this underscore a reality many in law enforcement know all too well: officers are often the first—and sometimes only—immediate help available when children experience mental health crises.
Rather than enforcement, this call required:
- Split-second decision-making
- Physical intervention to save a life
- Coordination with EMS and hospital staff
- Emotional control in a chaotic, heartbreaking situation
Officers did not charge the juvenile with any offenses. Their focus was stopping the immediate danger and getting her to medical care.
A Reminder of a Growing Crisis
Mental health professionals say youth self-harm and crisis behaviors are rising nationwide, leaving police increasingly tasked with roles far beyond traditional law enforcement—acting as protectors, crisis managers, and last lines of defense when a child is in danger.
In this case, officers’ quick response likely prevented a tragedy.
If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm or suicidal thoughts, help is available. You can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, anytime, day or night.
